1925 – 2017

BANGOR— Gemma M. Tancrel, 91, passed away Friday, Jan. 27, at Eastern Maine Medical Center in Bangor with her loving family at her side.

She was born in Lewiston on Dec. 7, 1925, the daughter of the late Adelard and Lauza (Lemelin).

Gemma lived and worked in the surrounding communities throughout her life including the Bleachery, the Lewiston school lunch program and d’Youville Pavilion. She was a member of Holy Family Parish, Ladies of Ste. Anne and KC Women’s Auxiliary. She was married to Bertrand Tancrel for 25 years and was a devoted mother who always put family first. Gemma very much enjoyed the company of her friends and relatives. She had fond memories with them of afternoon coffee at Tim Hortons, shopping, going out to eat, Old Orchard Beach, life at home on Allen Pond, and as a 35-year resident of Lafayette Park. Gemma was patriotic and had many charities that supported veterans and our troops. She also loved her pets and gave to the Humane Society and SPCA. Gemma spent her last years living independently in Ellsworth, enjoying time with her family and friends, and being the best Memere in the world to her three grandchildren.

Gemma is survived by her daughter, Mary Ann Wheeler and her husband, David, of Ellsworth; her three grandchildren, Julianne, Matthew and Alia Wheeler of Ellsworth; and many nieces and nephews, including Bert and Rachel Lemelin of Auburn, Stanley and Liz Lemelin of Tennessee, and Ronald and Irene Adams of Hartford.

She was a special woman who will be sadly missed by family and friends.

She was predeceased by her parents; and her two brothers, Gerard and Raymond Lemelin.

Friends and family are invited to share their memories and offer their condolences by visiting Gemma’s online guest book at www.thefortingrouplewiston.com.